This latest show by the students of Bristol Old Vic Theatre School is based on German author Klaus Mann’s 1936 novel, Mephisto. It tells the story of a theatre company in 1920s Germany as Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party rises to power.
This is no ordinary theatre production. It takes place in the Loco Klub, housed in the former ash pit tunnels of Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s original Bristol Temple Meads station. The incredibly immersive play travels between the venue’s five tunnels, with the audience following the action. At several times the actors perform amongst those watching.
Mephisto is a haunting story delivered by an excellent cast. The tension is expertly built during the three hour production as the National Socialists grow their influence and the actors are forced to decide whether to comply, with some lured by the seductive power of fame into backing the party.
This is one of the most atmospheric shows we’ve ever experienced and it was our first visit to the spectacular Loco Klub. The tunnels add a huge amount to the feelings of fear and tension as the tyranny takes hold, and the production recreates the look of the 1920s and 30s really well with superb costumes and brilliant sets. Adding to the show’s effectiveness is the actors’ ghoulish make-up.
Despite a few confusing moments and the movement between the tunnels occasionally disrupting the action, this is a fantastic and cleverly staged play with a hugely important and very timely message in the current political landscape.
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Mephisto by Bristol Old Vic Theatre School is at Loco Klub in Bristol until 5 July.
Images by Edward J Felton
